I know it sounds weird, but my cats are scared of the Drinkwell. So, I sent an email to Veterinary Ventures, the company who makes Drinkwell, regarding my concern. And, surprise, surprise, I actually got a reply from the company!!!!
Just thought someone else might find this message helpful, so I would like to share what the company wrote to me. Below is the message:
I got my Drinkwell off eBay....no 30 days money back guarantee...So, hopefully my cats will eventually drink from it, otherwise, I will have to drink from the well myself!!!Hi Jean,
Thank you for writing us. If your felines are that frightened by the unit, then there may not be anything you can do to change their minds. However, I can suggest a few tips that might help.
Don't plug the fountain in, and use it as a regular dish for about a week until the cats get used to it.
Take all other sources of water away from them.
Try placing the fountain in the same location as their old water dish.
Place a few ice cubes in the bowl. Just like us, cats like cold water.
Try coaxing the cats by placing treats on the edge of the bowl. Once they see that the bowl will not hurt them, then they will not be so frightened by it.
When you do finally plug the fountain in, place a mat or towel underneath the unit. This will quiet the fountain vibration a bit. Leave the flow control knob at the lowest setting (all the way to the left) so that the water is a soft trickle.
We understand that all cats are different, and some might not appreciate the Drinkwell, therefore, most of our retailers offer a 30 day money back guarantee. Make sure to try all the tips before your 30 days are up.
I hope this helps, please let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Thanks,
Michelle Mick